Shot Down: The true story of pilot Howard Snyder and the crew of the B-17 Susan Ruth

First Person this isn't..not for the first 70% of the book anyway, then you sort of get a third person view but little is fleshed out, I was thinking when I paid $8.95 for this that it was an account beginning to end of a particular crew and plane, but got instead a long page after page review of everything the author researched, with constant repetition proving that the Editor who reviewed this must have told the author his own memories were too little to write a book on and to "pad it out". As a past senior professional editor myself and author, I really can't see the need to dump a lot of extraneous 8th Air Force facts nd statistics (especially given in the dry deadpan manner this author does) regarding other planes and crew (except you know in a few paragraphs here or there to give it the flavor needed to make a book out of just a bunch of military obituary notices. My father was in the ASAAF in WWII and I was in the USAF in the Cold War and I was looking for more of the "story" here but there wasn't much of that. As for the author, well- memories are interesting things, and not always exactly reliable 60+ years later. To really understand this era and the 8th Air Force don't read just this book, read a variety, and then decide. .

A nice idea for a story whose description caught my eye and decided me on buying it. However, the actual story of being shot down and the aftermath takes up about a third (at most) of this book. Many of the extraneous pages deal with the makeup of various models of the B-17, names of others in the U.S. Army Air Corps who were not at all germane to the story (names easily forgotten) and so many photographs leading me to feel as if the story became captions of the photos. It is a somewhat awkwardly written book, with numerous misspellings, grammatical mistakes, and wrong terms (e.g., National Aeronautical and Space Administration should read Aeronautics; referring folks from Belgium as Belgium people instead of Belgians; to name a couple). To me it is a nice idea for a story that in its being submitted for publication was deemed too short, so much was added to enlarge the book to 300+ pages versus the original 100 or so. The publication information page includes the editor's name, so I guess it was indeed edited, but my comments would indicate that it was a cursory task and that the author didn't get his money's worth, whatever the cost.

I love learning things but I'm not one to have the patience to sit and read an entire book. In fact, I haven't read a book cover to cover, literally, in decades. However, I had to change my tune when I became aware of this biography of a WWII pilot and crew that, coincidentally, belonged to the same bomb group as my own father, albeit about a year earlier. The 306th bomb group based in Thurleigh, England had the dubious distinction of being the very first bomb group to take the war to the skies over Germany. Yes, nearly every old WWII clip you see of B-17's in combat, being shot up and going down, it all started with the 306th. (The famous movie, "12 O'Clock High" was also heavily based on the 306th BG.) I'm not going to go into details because there are many reviews already so there's no point in being redundant. I'll just say that for the first time in eons I couldn't put a book down until I got to the back cover. The author tells a fascinating story that takes us back to the greatest days of The Greatest Generation, where these men came from and how they ended up where they did. Starting with the training, life on the numerous bases scattered all over the English countryside that were built in such short order - a monumental effort in its own right - then on to the actual combat these "kids" had to survive at least 25 times. At this point the story has become established and now we get to see another picture, the picture of what it's like not to be the lucky ones to return to base. Now we get to see what it's like to have your Fortress shot out of the sky 25,000 feet over enemy territory, to parachute down behind enemy lines, the new battle for survival and great details about what can happen to individuals of a crew and what it takes for them to get back to friendly lines...or not. One little tidbit most are not aware of, with the ferocity of the war in the skies over Germany the 8th Air Force had a higher attrition rate and lost more men than any other unit in the US military during the war! This isn't just a story, it's history, a history that needs to be revisited time to time lest we forget. A history that needs to be passed on to future generations of this great country lest they never learn why it was great or what it took to achieve that greatness. Buy. Read. Experience. Learn. Remember.

Meticulous and endearing tribute to the crew of the B17 Flying Fortress, the Susan Ruth during World War II. Complied by letters and records left behind, author Steven Snyder, son of the pilot, Howard Synder, recounts the exploits of the crew from their family background, to training to the fiery crash that caused them to parachute and survive in enemy territory. In a clear and crisp voice, Synder describes both his father and the world he lived in. The budding romance with his mother, courtship and finally marriage is tenderly told through personal letters that paint a vivid picture of their relationship. Training, deployment to England and the grueling and dangerous conditions are described in harrowing details. This is how we should learn about war, through the eyes of those who sacrifice so much to keep others safe. The book tells of their insecurities and fears, the heartache from being away from loved ones, missing births and other milestones in the home front. I loved this band of brothers, their camaraderie and courage, and when I read the parts of the outcome, the unfair vagary of fate, I was saddened by the wastefulness of war. Heartbreaking and poignant, families and wives at home, showed equal bravery and support. This was a memoir, a love letter from son to father, honoring him for his quiet dignity and courage. It is a wonderful snapshot of people preforming admirably under the worst of conditions, where some gave everything they had to give.

I have just finished reading Shot Down and cannot thank you enough for this remarkable book. My father flew B-17s out of Deopham Green...35 missions, mostly as co-pilot, and for the first time I understand his story which he was never able to communicate. By the time I was old enough to have been deemed "worthy" of hearing his story, he had suffered a stroke and lost his speech. So I knew bits and pieces but the true horrors and impossible fears have just now become real to me, through your book. I am currently writing the historical biography of an American woman doctor whose small family survived a Japanese prison in Manila. The research has been riveting, and what I thought would be a two-year project has turned into five. I tell you this so that you will know I truly understand the effort you have made to convey your father's story in the richest possible detail. And for that I thank you.

Having just completed a book about the air war in the Pacific during WWII, I thought it would be a good idea to read (and listen) about what was going on over the skies of Europe. In this case, the story centers on the fate of a B-17 crew shot down over Belgium. The captain of the B-17 in question, Howard Snyder, also happens to be the father of author Steve Snyder. While the story of the shoot down and the efforts of the various crew members to evade capture takes up a sizeable portion of the book, the author has jam-packed his story with numerous references to other battles and historical events during this period. In most cases, the background material is interesting. In other instances, however, the author goes overboard with the amount of detail he provides. One example involves the crew of the B-17. You couldn't tell this story without giving some background on the individuals and the training they received. But do we need to know the serial numbers on the dog tags for each of them? There are too many instances where technical details, such as the specific designation of the engines on the B-17, would have been better suited for an end note. As written text, it's easy to skip over what is obviously unnecessary detail. The narrator of the audio version, as well as the listener, didn't have this luxury. The B-17, also known as the flying fortress, has always interested me. The reality, however, of having to fly in an unpressurized aircraft, poorly heated, while wearing an oxygen mask, and then getting shot at, has taken away the romance. As much as I disagreed with many of the details the author decided to include in his story, I did find the slew of statistics the author cites at the end of the book concerning aircraft (how many were built, how many were shot down, how many survived) and a similar accounting of the flight crews, very informative. I was given a copy of the audio version in exchange for a review. I purchased the eBook version.

I read a lot of WWII history - mostly Veterans' accounts. I am not an historian or an expert - I just appreciate these men and women so much. Mr. Snyder's book about his father and what he and his crew experienced as USAAF fighters in Europe is just so good. Mr. Snyder has written this book in such a manner that anyone can understand the workings of the Armed Forces without being over simplistic or condescending. The story of these men is so worth reading. What they went through as fliers against the Luftwaffe was unimaginable, to me. The losses they suffered yet carried on shows how dedicated they were. What they went through as downed fliers was more so. Mr. Snyder conveys the conditions inside the B-17 and the fear and professionalism of these men so well - you almost feel like you're in that plane with them. Intermixed with the story of these men are letters to and from home which gives the reader a good idea of how it must have been to have your husband/brother/son/sweetheart overseas not knowing whether or not he'd come back - truly the Greatest Generation. Read it - you won't regret it.

I have been fascinated with the 8th Army Air Force since I was a kid. I was born in East Anglia UK where many of the USAAF were stationed in WWII and heard many stories about the men of the 8th growing up. In my last year of high school I did my project about the men, the airplanes and airfields of Mighty Eighth. I think it might have been part of the reason I ended up living in Texas. Anyway I have read a lot of books about WWII and had started reading a few to my then 9 year old daughter as I wanted her to know what a true hero was. I'd been taking her to airshows from the time she was 18 months old and would always take her through the heroes tent. I had just finished reading her Col. "Bud" Anderson's book "To Fly and to Fight" (another excellent read BTW) and was asking on a facebook page dedicated to WWII what would be another appropriate book to read to my daughter and Steve's book was one of a few that came highly recommended. First of all I read it myself and thoroughly enjoyed it but when I read it to my then 10 year old daughter she was wanting me to carry on reading and was staying up later than normal. The book is about Steve's dad who became a pilot of a B17 Flying Fortress Susan Ruth and got sent to England. He gives you a really good picture of his dad and his dads crew and walks you through some of their experiences leading up to when they got shot down. In between there is a good mixture of history in between which really sets the scene. I think the part when I couldn't put the book down was when Steve's dad was evading the Germans once he was shot down. Being a true story you can't imagine what it would have been like to be in his dad's shoes but you get a really good feel for the bravery of everybody involved, especially the Belgium civilians who risked their own lives to help the flyer's. A gripping read about real heroes of the greatest generation with a good bit of WWII history mixed in.

Steve Snyder is the son of B-17 pilot Howard Snyder who was shot down in February of 1944 on the French/Belgium border. Two members of the crew of 10 were killed in the plane, some rescued and in hiding, some captured. The author not only did research to learn what happened to his father, but also the rest of the crew. He contacted a German man who was one of the pilots who shot down the Susan Ruth (which was named for the Lt. Snyder's daughter). Howard Snyder was part of the 369th Bomb Squadron, 306th Bomb Group, 8th Air Force, stationed in England. I learned about their living conditions there, and also an explanation of the amazing combat formations for the hundreds of bombers sent on each mission. Snyder was kept hidden by brave Belgians. Paul Delahaye was a child in Belgium when the Nazis overran that nation. He was 13 when the Americans forced out the Germans and he met the Americans who freed them. He made it his mission to make sure the Americans are never forgotten, building memorials and starting museums. Howard Snyder kept in touch with his rescuers and even visited there, also meeting Paul Delahaye. A remarkable and complete history.

The author did something interesting with this book. On the one hand, he told the story of the crew of a B-17 who were shot down and ended up in a number of different POW Camps. That story itself is interesting. However, he also wove additional information throughout the book. Background information on the Pilot growing up in the Depression and getting married just before going to war. He went into more details about pilot training than I've seen most books do. And included a lot of information about what made the B17 such a special battle beast. He also included, throughout the book, additional information about the war beyond his crew and their missions. So, if someone is looking for a deep dive limited to the plane and crew that was shot down, that's not what this is. But the book does an excellent job of incorporating the larger picture of the world and the war which form the backdrop of these events. I also found something interesting. That my father-in-law was in Stalag Luft IV when Joseph Musial and Roy Holbert arrived there. I don't know whether he was in the same lager/compound as either of them, but I'm going to try and find out. Definitely worth the read. Again, especially if you are looking for ta wider view of the times.

First Person this isn't..not for the first 70% of the book anyway, then you sort of get a third person view but little is fleshed out, I was thinking when I paid $8.95 for this that it was an account beginning to end of a particular crew and plane, but got instead a long page after page review of everything the author researched, with constant repetition proving that the Editor who reviewed this must have told the author his own memories were too little to write a book on and to "pad it out". As a past senior professional editor myself and author, I really can't see the need to dump a lot of extraneous 8th Air Force facts nd statistics (especially given in the dry deadpan manner this author does) regarding other planes and crew (except you know in a few paragraphs here or there to give it the flavor needed to make a book out of just a bunch of military obituary notices. My father was in the ASAAF in WWII and I was in the USAF in the Cold War and I was looking for more of the "story" here but there wasn't much of that. As for the author, well- memories are interesting things, and not always exactly reliable 60+ years later. To really understand this era and the 8th Air Force don't read just this book, read a variety, and then decide. .

A nice idea for a story whose description caught my eye and decided me on buying it. However, the actual story of being shot down and the aftermath takes up about a third (at most) of this book. Many of the extraneous pages deal with the makeup of various models of the B-17, names of others in the U.S. Army Air Corps who were not at all germane to the story (names easily forgotten) and so many photographs leading me to feel as if the story became captions of the photos. It is a somewhat awkwardly written book, with numerous misspellings, grammatical mistakes, and wrong terms (e.g., National Aeronautical and Space Administration should read Aeronautics; referring folks from Belgium as Belgium people instead of Belgians; to name a couple). To me it is a nice idea for a story that in its being submitted for publication was deemed too short, so much was added to enlarge the book to 300+ pages versus the original 100 or so. The publication information page includes the editor's name, so I guess it was indeed edited, but my comments would indicate that it was a cursory task and that the author didn't get his money's worth, whatever the cost.

I love learning things but I'm not one to have the patience to sit and read an entire book. In fact, I haven't read a book cover to cover, literally, in decades. However, I had to change my tune when I became aware of this biography of a WWII pilot and crew that, coincidentally, belonged to the same bomb group as my own father, albeit about a year earlier. The 306th bomb group based in Thurleigh, England had the dubious distinction of being the very first bomb group to take the war to the skies over Germany. Yes, nearly every old WWII clip you see of B-17's in combat, being shot up and going down, it all started with the 306th. (The famous movie, "12 O'Clock High" was also heavily based on the 306th BG.) I'm not going to go into details because there are many reviews already so there's no point in being redundant. I'll just say that for the first time in eons I couldn't put a book down until I got to the back cover. The author tells a fascinating story that takes us back to the greatest days of The Greatest Generation, where these men came from and how they ended up where they did. Starting with the training, life on the numerous bases scattered all over the English countryside that were built in such short order - a monumental effort in its own right - then on to the actual combat these "kids" had to survive at least 25 times. At this point the story has become established and now we get to see another picture, the picture of what it's like not to be the lucky ones to return to base. Now we get to see what it's like to have your Fortress shot out of the sky 25,000 feet over enemy territory, to parachute down behind enemy lines, the new battle for survival and great details about what can happen to individuals of a crew and what it takes for them to get back to friendly lines...or not. One little tidbit most are not aware of, with the ferocity of the war in the skies over Germany the 8th Air Force had a higher attrition rate and lost more men than any other unit in the US military during the war! This isn't just a story, it's history, a history that needs to be revisited time to time lest we forget. A history that needs to be passed on to future generations of this great country lest they never learn why it was great or what it took to achieve that greatness. Buy. Read. Experience. Learn. Remember.

Meticulous and endearing tribute to the crew of the B17 Flying Fortress, the Susan Ruth during World War II. Complied by letters and records left behind, author Steven Snyder, son of the pilot, Howard Synder, recounts the exploits of the crew from their family background, to training to the fiery crash that caused them to parachute and survive in enemy territory. In a clear and crisp voice, Synder describes both his father and the world he lived in. The budding romance with his mother, courtship and finally marriage is tenderly told through personal letters that paint a vivid picture of their relationship. Training, deployment to England and the grueling and dangerous conditions are described in harrowing details. This is how we should learn about war, through the eyes of those who sacrifice so much to keep others safe. The book tells of their insecurities and fears, the heartache from being away from loved ones, missing births and other milestones in the home front. I loved this band of brothers, their camaraderie and courage, and when I read the parts of the outcome, the unfair vagary of fate, I was saddened by the wastefulness of war. Heartbreaking and poignant, families and wives at home, showed equal bravery and support. This was a memoir, a love letter from son to father, honoring him for his quiet dignity and courage. It is a wonderful snapshot of people preforming admirably under the worst of conditions, where some gave everything they had to give.

I have just finished reading Shot Down and cannot thank you enough for this remarkable book. My father flew B-17s out of Deopham Green...35 missions, mostly as co-pilot, and for the first time I understand his story which he was never able to communicate. By the time I was old enough to have been deemed "worthy" of hearing his story, he had suffered a stroke and lost his speech. So I knew bits and pieces but the true horrors and impossible fears have just now become real to me, through your book. I am currently writing the historical biography of an American woman doctor whose small family survived a Japanese prison in Manila. The research has been riveting, and what I thought would be a two-year project has turned into five. I tell you this so that you will know I truly understand the effort you have made to convey your father's story in the richest possible detail. And for that I thank you.

Having just completed a book about the air war in the Pacific during WWII, I thought it would be a good idea to read (and listen) about what was going on over the skies of Europe. In this case, the story centers on the fate of a B-17 crew shot down over Belgium. The captain of the B-17 in question, Howard Snyder, also happens to be the father of author Steve Snyder. While the story of the shoot down and the efforts of the various crew members to evade capture takes up a sizeable portion of the book, the author has jam-packed his story with numerous references to other battles and historical events during this period. In most cases, the background material is interesting. In other instances, however, the author goes overboard with the amount of detail he provides. One example involves the crew of the B-17. You couldn't tell this story without giving some background on the individuals and the training they received. But do we need to know the serial numbers on the dog tags for each of them? There are too many instances where technical details, such as the specific designation of the engines on the B-17, would have been better suited for an end note. As written text, it's easy to skip over what is obviously unnecessary detail. The narrator of the audio version, as well as the listener, didn't have this luxury. The B-17, also known as the flying fortress, has always interested me. The reality, however, of having to fly in an unpressurized aircraft, poorly heated, while wearing an oxygen mask, and then getting shot at, has taken away the romance. As much as I disagreed with many of the details the author decided to include in his story, I did find the slew of statistics the author cites at the end of the book concerning aircraft (how many were built, how many were shot down, how many survived) and a similar accounting of the flight crews, very informative. I was given a copy of the audio version in exchange for a review. I purchased the eBook version.

I read a lot of WWII history - mostly Veterans' accounts. I am not an historian or an expert - I just appreciate these men and women so much. Mr. Snyder's book about his father and what he and his crew experienced as USAAF fighters in Europe is just so good. Mr. Snyder has written this book in such a manner that anyone can understand the workings of the Armed Forces without being over simplistic or condescending. The story of these men is so worth reading. What they went through as fliers against the Luftwaffe was unimaginable, to me. The losses they suffered yet carried on shows how dedicated they were. What they went through as downed fliers was more so. Mr. Snyder conveys the conditions inside the B-17 and the fear and professionalism of these men so well - you almost feel like you're in that plane with them. Intermixed with the story of these men are letters to and from home which gives the reader a good idea of how it must have been to have your husband/brother/son/sweetheart overseas not knowing whether or not he'd come back - truly the Greatest Generation. Read it - you won't regret it.

I have been fascinated with the 8th Army Air Force since I was a kid. I was born in East Anglia UK where many of the USAAF were stationed in WWII and heard many stories about the men of the 8th growing up. In my last year of high school I did my project about the men, the airplanes and airfields of Mighty Eighth. I think it might have been part of the reason I ended up living in Texas. Anyway I have read a lot of books about WWII and had started reading a few to my then 9 year old daughter as I wanted her to know what a true hero was. I'd been taking her to airshows from the time she was 18 months old and would always take her through the heroes tent. I had just finished reading her Col. "Bud" Anderson's book "To Fly and to Fight" (another excellent read BTW) and was asking on a facebook page dedicated to WWII what would be another appropriate book to read to my daughter and Steve's book was one of a few that came highly recommended. First of all I read it myself and thoroughly enjoyed it but when I read it to my then 10 year old daughter she was wanting me to carry on reading and was staying up later than normal. The book is about Steve's dad who became a pilot of a B17 Flying Fortress Susan Ruth and got sent to England. He gives you a really good picture of his dad and his dads crew and walks you through some of their experiences leading up to when they got shot down. In between there is a good mixture of history in between which really sets the scene. I think the part when I couldn't put the book down was when Steve's dad was evading the Germans once he was shot down. Being a true story you can't imagine what it would have been like to be in his dad's shoes but you get a really good feel for the bravery of everybody involved, especially the Belgium civilians who risked their own lives to help the flyer's. A gripping read about real heroes of the greatest generation with a good bit of WWII history mixed in.

Steve Snyder is the son of B-17 pilot Howard Snyder who was shot down in February of 1944 on the French/Belgium border. Two members of the crew of 10 were killed in the plane, some rescued and in hiding, some captured. The author not only did research to learn what happened to his father, but also the rest of the crew. He contacted a German man who was one of the pilots who shot down the Susan Ruth (which was named for the Lt. Snyder's daughter). Howard Snyder was part of the 369th Bomb Squadron, 306th Bomb Group, 8th Air Force, stationed in England. I learned about their living conditions there, and also an explanation of the amazing combat formations for the hundreds of bombers sent on each mission. Snyder was kept hidden by brave Belgians. Paul Delahaye was a child in Belgium when the Nazis overran that nation. He was 13 when the Americans forced out the Germans and he met the Americans who freed them. He made it his mission to make sure the Americans are never forgotten, building memorials and starting museums. Howard Snyder kept in touch with his rescuers and even visited there, also meeting Paul Delahaye. A remarkable and complete history.

The author did something interesting with this book. On the one hand, he told the story of the crew of a B-17 who were shot down and ended up in a number of different POW Camps. That story itself is interesting. However, he also wove additional information throughout the book. Background information on the Pilot growing up in the Depression and getting married just before going to war. He went into more details about pilot training than I've seen most books do. And included a lot of information about what made the B17 such a special battle beast. He also included, throughout the book, additional information about the war beyond his crew and their missions. So, if someone is looking for a deep dive limited to the plane and crew that was shot down, that's not what this is. But the book does an excellent job of incorporating the larger picture of the world and the war which form the backdrop of these events. I also found something interesting. That my father-in-law was in Stalag Luft IV when Joseph Musial and Roy Holbert arrived there. I don't know whether he was in the same lager/compound as either of them, but I'm going to try and find out. Definitely worth the read. Again, especially if you are looking for ta wider view of the times.

I am also the son of an 8th Air Force flyer. My Dad was a flight engineer and did make it through 25 missions. Dad was one of the lucky ones. Reading Shot Down was like listening to my father talk about missions when I could pry the stories from him. I believe Dad simply did not like to revisit the memories of the carnage. And given the loss rate, particularly in 1943, I am lucky to be here. A fact from the 8th Air Force Museum in Savannah, Georgia is that more airmen lost their lives in bombing mission over Europe in WW2 than Marines were lost in the Pacific theater. With my father's stories and his mission diary as a testament I can attest to the authenticity to much of Steve's flying related story. This gives me confidence that incredible story of his father hiding from and resisting the Nazis is also authentic and quite a story it is! (Coincidentally, Steve's and my fathers were in different bomb groups but flew on the same first mission of a few hundred planes. ) You will enjoy Steve's telling of his father's adventures.

This is an excellent true and accurate book written by Steve Snyder, about his Father Howard Snyder, a B-17 piolet about what the conditions were like for the air crews flying the B-17, and the details of what happened to them after being shot down. The stories told were a mirror to what some of my veteran friends who have sense passed away, told me of their stories when flying and what issues they ran into after they were shot down. There are a lot of details I did not even know of which gives me 20/20 hindsight of not asking my past friends. I love reading WW2 history, and this book fills in a lot of gaps of the air war. By reading this book, I can almost picture everything as if I was there. I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in WW2 history, especially regarding air warfare. Well done Steve!

A very well documented book that encompasses the air war over Europe. It brings the reader a glimpse into the thin air at 20,000 + feet where German fighters & anti-aircraft guns fought the US 8th Air Force. The extreme stress bomber crews endured into & out of the target, as bombers exploded, went into death spirals to the ground, or fell back wounded out of formation to be picked off by fighters. Crews searching the skys for parachutes of survivors. All remaining on task to deliver their bombs and to get home alive. The survivors total reliance on civilians that risked everything to help the airmen escape capture. The high cost of freedom was paid by the brave souls in the bombers at 20,000+ feet in the skies over Europe.

This is an excellent description of the life and death of World War II air crew members as told from the perspective of intertwined personal memoirs from both allied and German participants. It seems vividly real to me because it has the same look, feel and sense of duty to crew and country as stories my father told about being wounded, shot down and captured on his 29th mission with the same 369th Squadron as Howard Snyder. Unlike many other period stories told from a personal viewpoint, the author neatly weaves his father's experiences into the broad historical perspective. The narrative is not footnoted, but everything is well documented with abundant photos and figures. The abundance of photos in the book is surprising. The Acknowledgements, Sources and Index sections of the book are long, and it would take weeks to review all of the hard copy and digital reference documentation cited. My only criticism is that while all of the many photos and figures in the book are compelling and very relevant to the story line, some of those small figures or maps from military training publications are just too small and render the embedded text illegible. In my opinion, those would have been more effective as full-page illustrations.

"Shot Down" chronicles the story of the B-17 "Susan Ruth" and its crew. Written by the son of the pilot, Howard Snyder, this book gives the reader an inside look at the Eighth Air Force as it grew from a small force to the greatest air armada of World War II. Snyder and his crew went through training in the United States before being sent overseas. Once in Great Britain, they were attached to the 369th squadron of the 306th bomb group. Missions over Germany soon followed. In February, 1944, the Susan Ruth was shot down by enemy fighters. This was the beginning of a seven month odyssey for Howard, who jumped from the burning plane along with eight others of the crew. Howard eventually joined the Belgian resistance to fight back against the Germans. With the help of numerous Belgian civilians, Howard managed to make it out alive. "Shot Down" is a fine book. Not only does author Steve Snyder tell his father's story, he also tells the story of the build-up of the Eighth Air Force. The reader not only learns about the bombing missions, but other ares, including flying in combat, training, and the problems faced while trying to return to base. I've read several books about the Eighth Air Force, and "Shot Down" is a worthy addition to its history. Highly recommended.

I often await disappointment as I read books in this topic - first hand accounts. I await poor writing, poor organization, flat stories, unflattering comparisons with superior books in this area, immature or sloppy recounting, dullness, wrong-headedness... Thus far, even if I might sense any of those qualities at the start, they always wash away, and each account quickly transports me to the same amazement I have experienced in reading similar books. Same thing here. The only other thing I might add, is there were parts of this book that were simply so gripping that that I have thought about them long after reading the book. I am humbled by these writers.

World War II is popular as a book topic again—and rightly so—we must not forget the service and sacrifice of our father’s or grandfather’s generation. I admit, I’m hooked and want to read all I can. It is evident that Steve Snyder’s book is a labor of love. He thoroughly researched his father’s war years before crafting a well-told story. Told in great detail from recollections, letters, interviews and personal reading, Steve shares his father’s experiences as a pilot in the 306th Bomb Group from start to homecoming. My own father was on the ground crew of the 326th Bomb Group in England which made this account even more interesting to me. I’d recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn about the true to life experiences of a WWII pilot before and after he was shot down, as well as those who supported and served with him. We owe it to these men to keep their memories alive. Steve Snyder did just that in sharing his father’s story.

It's been some time since I've read this fine book, and I'm just now getting around to giving it the five (or more) stars that it deserves. I have a personal connection to the B-17, my favorite of all the bombers. Like Steve's father, my father-in-law flew a B-17 as a non-commissioned flight officer. His plane was shot down on the twelfth (or was it thirteenth) mission. His entire crew, save one survived but spent the rest of the war in the Stalag camps. From his history, I can imagine Howard Snyder's experience very well. I definitely recommend this book with all my heart. "Shot Down" by Steve Snyder, Howard's son.

This is a good book. Shot Down chronicles the war time service of a B-17 Heavy Bomber crew in the Eighth Air Force. Moreover, it continues the story of what happened when those Airmen were shot down over enemy occupied territory and the assistance provided by the Belgian Resistance, who constantly lived in fear of arrest or death for assisting the allied Airman evade capture and return to Allied lines. The book is a reminder of the important role that the Resistance played in the war. The story flows well and reads easily. The crew of the Susan Ruth was undoubtedly similar to the thousands of other heavy bomber crews, but the story is theirs and is still engaging. The author made a lasting tribute to his father, the crew and to everyone who served in the Army Air Forces during World War 2.

An amazing biographical story of the author's father who was shot down over Europe. The story is both tragic and heart warming as the author retells his father's adventures hiding and then fighting the Germans behind enemy lines. The author also found the German pilot who shot his father's plane down and interviewed him for this book. The book reads like an action novel but because it's factual, brings with it an emotional roller coaster as the reader realizes the impact a single pilot can make on so many lives.

Just finished reading Shot Down...twice! Excellent read. Steve Snyder has done an outstanding job! Full of facts about the Belgian Resistance and the difficulties faced by downed aviators in Nazi occupied Europe. I enjoyed the research that went into the book as well as the family connections. War is hell for not only the combatants, but also for their families. This was related in a inclusive way that strengthened the “story line”. I really enjoyed this book on several levels: 1st because my ancestors are from Rienne, Belgium, only 33 miles from Chimay, and 2nd, because my father’s B17F #42-3535, was shot down over Denmark on 11 April 1944 and the Danish Resistance aided the whole crew in escaping and evading to Sweden. Similar story in some ways. My son and I visited Belgium while stationed in Germany in 1988.

Iv'e been a long time student of the Eighth Air Force and the air war in Europe during World War II since my youth. Liker many son's & daughters of World War II combat veterans , my father a US Marine combat veteran in the South Pacific with the Fourth Marine Divison . I grew up on stories about the war. This book wonderfully researched by the son of Howard Snyder , who's father flew a B-17 named "Susan Ruth" in the 306th Bpomb Group in the Eighth Air Force out of England . The book gives one marvelous insight into the life & training of this crew from its early training days to deployment to England and combat over the Reich on these terrible long dangerous missions. I love the detail in which author Steve Snyder, the son of Howard Snyder tells this epic tale of life & death and survival in the dangerous skies over Europe. Being shot down as well and continuing his personal fight against the Nazi's with the resistance ! Great insight into the men who flew these dangerous missions. A book to have in your World War II avation collection! A 5 Star keeper for sure! A salute & prayers for all these young men who made the ultimate sacrifice in winning freedom for so many! TC

The book arrived timely and in condition advertised (very good used book). Highly recommend the seller and this true story of American Pilots bombing Germany from Great Britain in WWII. Author Snyder does an excellent job of defining terms commonly used at the time in reference to war. Highly and accurately researched, including side-stories that are relevant to Captain Snyder's tale. As with all true WWII stories, it is a thriller and cannot be put down. Should be read by every high school student in USA and Great Britain.

Great book that provides excellent background info on life as a B-17 pilot I read this book from front to end in one sitting, couldn't lay it down. Although it doesn't provide much info on bomber tactics and operations, it provides invaluable insight into

I just finished reading this book. I found it to be a very well written researched book. A very hard book to put down. The many, many photos accompanying the story are extremely interesting. The book is written by the son of the pilot of the WWII B-17, the Susan Ruth, the main character in the book. The book goes into depth about from what the pilot training was like in the States, the transitioning to larger aircraft, joining up as a crew, joining a combat bomber command in England, to what the actual aerial combat in a B-17 in WWII was like. It also details what each crew-members duties were like along with a a short biography on each actual crew member. There is also actual comments from the German fighter pilots perspective, along with recollections from the very German fighter pilot who shot the Susan Ruth down, (who was also at the same time shot down by the Susan Ruth’s gunners) and what his life was like as a German fighter pilot. A lot of detail as well as WWII aviation history, something I really enjoyed reading being a career military flyer. The book also details what it was like for the French and Belgium people under German occupation, along with the resistant underground fighters. Many personal letters written by the crewmembers as well as from their loved ones back home give a unique outlook on what it was like from both sides of the ocean during the war. This book is very sobering, funny, interesting, and sad at times. An outstanding outlook into what combat flying in a B-17 was like in WWII. A great read. Highly recommend!

Every now and again a work of history comes along that reads as thrillingly as a work of fiction. Shot Down, written by Steve Snyder, is one such book. Utilizing the letters and diary of his father, Mr. Snyder has forged a link to the past in telling the story of the crew of the "Susan Ruth". You'll be staying up late turning the pages of this one as you share the anxieties of a crew shot down in enemy territory. A proud tribute to the author's father, and thoughtful reminder of the heroics of young men who helped secure our freedom in the skies over Hitler's Fortress Europe. This is a book that will not disappoint!

Shot Down is a great book for anyone who has an interest in WWII and especially about the B-17 crews that served and what happened to many of the young men. The extra stories of the people who risked their lives to give aid and if possible help these airmen escape was very interesting. The book also has a lot of photos to help illustrate what the author is telling in the book. I found it hard to put the book down and was sad when I finally got to the end.

This book was clearly a labor of love and shows the respect the author has for his father and the rest of the crew of the 8th Air Force, 306th Bomb Group, B-17 Susan Ruth. It was thoroughly researched and well written. It tells the amazing story of their plane being shot down from the point of view of the crew and includes that of one of the German fighter pilots who shot it down. The heroic Belgian Resistance members who risked everything to aid downed Allied airmen are given due credit. Information on the crew members who were captured as Prisoners of War and what they endured is here. The larger context of World War 2, the creation and structure of the 8th Air Force, crew training, base life, B-17 design and operation, life on the home front, and much more is covered. A very compelling read: the only reason I did not read it in one sitting was that my aging eyes cannot maintain sharp reading focus for more than a couple hours. Highly recommended for anyone interested in those courageous men of the 8th Air Force who contributed so much to defeating the Nazis. – B. R. Scalley (son of Robert E. Scalley, 8th AAF, 388th BG, tail gunner on B-17 Satan’s Sister, POW 12/30/1943 to 4/29/1945)

Storytelling from the heart- Steve writes with great intensity and accuracy. The stories are vivid, as are the emotions of the crews and their families. I particularly liked how Steve wove in the stories of the Resistance fighters, many of whom are known but to God. If you want an insight into the reasons why "132 O'Clock High" resonates so much, read this book. If you want a personal biographical memoir of exquisite details, read this book. Steve memorializes all the players in a way that makes each add their valuable piece to the puzzle of why we fight for Freedom.

Steve.....Thank you so much for writing this book.As I have mentioned before my Dad was a belly gunner on the B-17 called the "Yankee Maid" shot down over Germany and a POW I do not know how long my Dad was on the ground or how he was captured. My Dad never would talk about the war so with Steve's book about his Father I was able to understand what those fathers,brothers, uncles went thru.Missions lasting many hours at high altitude on oxygen they were scared and painful.Eighteen years old plus flying thru the flack areas and seeing other B-17's shot down I can not even imagine what those men felt.While reading Steve's book I really felt close to my Dad.Many times tears would come down and I would have to stop for awhile.Steve's book means so much to me because my Dad never would say any thing so I found out some of the experiences my Dad went thru with Steve's book so if you want to know what happened to a B-17 crew and feel like your right there.GET IT..READ IT and PASS it on.....Steve you sir have made my day much brighter...I wish I could thank your father in person for his service but I know he knows. GOD BLESS YOU and your family and your tireless work...ED KOLB

This book is a must for those who love history. A personal account of airmen shot down and then their amazing journey back to their base. The central focus is on one man Howard Snyder, the pilot of a B-17. The book is very detailed of the events leading up to the crews service and then their experience after being shot down. It is hard to imagine what these men of the Greatest Generation experienced in war. We owe so much to them. And include my dad that served with the 114th in the ETO. if we don’t learn our history through books like this, we will be doomed to repeat it.

This is an amazing book which accurately tells how it was really like being in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. Steve Snyder has done a great job researching the training needed to be on a B-17 bombing crew. This book maybe the best written book on this subject! One can’t go wrong buying and reading this book! The men who fought the Nazis for our freedom are real heroes and their efforts should never be forgotten!

"Shot Down" by Steve Snyder is the true story of the "Susan Ruth", a B-17 shot down over Belgium on February 8, 1944. Steve's Dad, Howard Snyder, was the pilot and on this fateful day, as the burning plane began to fall apart, each crew member suffered a distinctly different fate. Steve has done a great job of following the footsteps of his Dad beginning with his training to become a pilot, life at Thurleigh through all the harrowing experiences after their plane literally crashed and burned. I anxiously awaited the fate of each airman. What was especially endearing to me was the love story. Howard and Ruth married shortly before he went to war. Susan Ruth was their baby daughter, and of course there was no other name considered for his new flying fortress than hers. Steve is fortunate to have every letter that his Dad wrote home. I enjoyed reading about all his crew members' hijinks while Howard was writing to Ruth about how much he missed her and their daughter. He wasn't interested in anything but her. "Shot Down" takes us from England to the skies over occupied Europe to the underground resistance in Belgium and in France. These young men were struggling to stay two steps ahead of the Gestapo while the brave citizens of the small villages risked their lives to help them. Years later, the families of these citizens are still remembering with gratitude the young men who lived and died among them.

A great history lesson.I had no idea I would learn how many men comprised a the crew of a bomber, what the inside of the plane looked like, the positions in which the men had to place their bodies in order to man their weapons, nor did I realize the freezing conditions inside the planes and that when a plane was shot down there were times when all ten crew member would be killed. I have read numerous books about WW II, and know several Germans who lived in Germany and grew up during that time, so I was pleased the Steve Snyder interviewed one of Germany's Ace Pilots who remarked that he did not understand why all of us simply could not sit down and talk to one another. If you are a reader of history, and war is history, do yourself a favor and read SHOT DOWN--I know I am glad that I did--now if we would just learn the lessons of history and conquest....

The research and details in this story are amazing. My father was a Liberator navigator and I have all his letters from his entire time in the Army Air Corps which I published. This book has information that adds to my understanding of life for the men facing death and injury. Great job. Nice to give credit in the end to a fellow veterinarian. I have both the audible and printed version. I found listening easier than reading, but the pictures in the printed version were worth having. Great Job Mr. Snyder Elizabeth Woolsey DVM

I agree with some other fellow reviewers who noted the 'padding' in this book to fill out an otherwise thin story line. That is, a lot of background that is not necessary. It also has noticeable, unnecessary redundancy. For the cost of the book (~$18) I'm surprised at how poor the photographs and maps are. Many place names in the text are not on the maps, and many place names that are on the maps are too small to read. The book could use judicious editing. The cover claims that the book has garnered 20 national awards - if so, they are no where mentioned in the book or in reviews, and frankly, this claim strikes me as dubious.

I had heard many good comments about this book, and having a father in law who was shot down in his B17 with the 95th BG on a daylight raid on Berlin, I eagerly anticipated reading this well researched and finely written account. I cannot say enough good things about this book, as it took me back in time to truly feel what it was like going through this ordeal My father in law spent the rest of the war in a. POW camp, but talked very little about his exploits before capture and his POW experiences there. THIS BOOK filled in the blanks about such an arduous ordeal and the many unspoken emotions and experiences one could only imagine, until now. Kudos to Steve Snyder on a well-written and detailed account that makes me feel I was there alongside these brave men...

For those more interested in the statistics on planes used in the 2nd world war this book is ideal - but too much cold fact about planes etc I found a bit boring. I was more interested in the pilots experiences which probably would have meant it would have been half the book it was. I normally enjoy true life war stories but this wasn’t one of them.

Shot Down is an exceptional depiction of life as a bomber crew member in World War II flying out of England. The technical descriptions of plane and combat are clear and detailed. The human interactions among crew members, local civilians and families back home are superb. And the daily anxieties of the upcoming missions are totally clear. But the tense interactions on the ground in occupied Belgium are felt inside by the reader. Having just attended a WWII air show in Duxford, UK, with a real B-17 flying overhead, this book helped me really appreciate what those young men experienced and what they did for our country.

This book is a remarkably well written account of the experiences of the flight crew of the Eighth Air Force, 306th Bomb Group, B-17 "Susan Ruth" piloted by Capt. Howard Snyder shot down over Germany on Feb. 8, 1944. The combat experiences of this crew are given in clear detail and their battle with German fighters is presented from letters and documents written at the time. All the crew members, except two who were killed in action, became either prisoners of war or were escapees protected by Belgium citizens who risked their lives. An unusual aspect of this book is the account provided of the lives of these crew members while POWs or in the protection of the Belgium people. The book is written by Capt. Snyder's son, Steve, and is a must read by all those interested in the events of WWll, especially the European Air War.

Extremely enjoyable story of Mr. Snyder's and the lives that the Susan Ruth touched in Shot Down. An excellent account filled with details and great references. Very complete accounts of the lives, training, combat, evasion, and survival while a POW. Recommend this book which gives us a better understanding of what these men and women went through to ensure the freedoms of most of the world's citizens.

I just discovered on ancestry.com that my third cousin's father, Howard Snyder, was a B-17 Pilot in the 8th air force in England WWII. He and his crew of 10 men were shot down over Belgium returning from there 8th bombing mission over Germany in 1944, and missing for seven months, the Belgian people helped him survive after bailing out .His son Steven Snyder has published this wonderful book about him and the fates of his fathers crew, called SHOT DOWN, its another great story about our greatest generation. It is our duty to remember and pass on these stories,sacrifices and memories of OUR GREATEST GENERATION.

History buffs, particularly individuals interested in WWII pilot training, actual flight bombing / combat narratives, and tribulations of "downed pilots". will find this book fascinating and exceptionally well researched. I rated 4-stars simply because I struggled through some of the dialog, although not repetitious, was very detailed with similar themes. Overall, an unusual and eye-opening read. It is amazing what the pilots went through at very young ages, the responsibilities they took on, and how locals risked their lives and their families lives to help and protect downed pilots".

If you want to know the whole lot more about the history of WWII most of authors fathers early life everything about his early military training , almost everything about a B17 except the amount of air in the tires this is the book for you . Actual shoot down does not come until around page 180 .

Excellent book about Lieutenant Howard Snyder, and the Susan Ruth crew. Shot Down was created from the vast number of letters and journals of Howard Snyder; diaries of men and women on the ground who rescued, sheltered and hid the crew; and interviews conducted by historians. Centered around the 306th Bomb Group in Thurleigh, England, it is informative, insightful and captivating. I found the book to be well researched, well written and a very good read. The book provides insight to the training and daily life of an American WWII bomber crew, their shoot down, and is a tribute to the bravery of the late Howard Snyder, the crew of the B-17 Flying Fortress named Susan Ruth. It is also a testament to the men of who flew, manned the guns and bomb sights of bombers, and the ground crewman who support America's bombers during WWII. This is a must read for those who are interested in the history of WWII.

This book is a great read whether you want an exciting adventure story, a biographical sketch of a war hero, a documentary about the air war in the European theatre in World War II, or all of the above. It lays out the big picture of the war while providing intimate detail of the life of Howard Snyder, his family back home, his military “family,” and the brave men and women who sheltered him and helped him evade German forces behind enemy lines. I was impressed by the extensive documentation that supports the narrative. The author drew from his father’s account, from those of other veterans and their families, from those who resisted German oppression in occupied countries, and even from German airmen who shot down allied aircraft over Europe. This research, accumulated over many years both here and abroad, adds color and texture to the book and brings it to life. The story reveals astonishing facts about the number of aircraft involved in a single bombing raid, the period of time required to properly train a pilot and crew, and the staggering number of airmen lost during the war. I came away convinced that Howard Snyder, like so many others of the Greatest Generation, was a true hero with the courage to carry out the mission and protect his crew, even in the face of death. I highly recommend this book and I thank Steve Snyder for writing it.

Shot Down is a well researched book yet easy to read, suitable for both researcher and casual reader alike. Steve Snyder, the author, has left us a valuable historical record of a B-17 bomber crew shot down over German-occupied Europe, and how its crew members and civilians the crew came into contact with were impacted. The cliche "you'll not want to put this book down" is appropriate. In all, a great read.

My dad’s a WWII vet and talked a little about the war, and the brother he lost. That brother, my uncle, is part of Shot Down. This well researched and written book fills in so many details of the life - and for some death - of these heroes. And opened many conversations with my WWII everyday hero.

Anyone with even a remote interest in WW2 and/or the 8th Air Force will simply love Steve's book detailing his dad's life or death war experiences as a B-17 pilot. The 8th Air Force lost more airmen in battle than the US Marine Corps in the Pacific Theater. This is not just another book about the war listing and describing battles from a staff officer's point of view. Steve does a superb job relating the close human drama and interactions between bomber crew members as well as the sacrifice and protection provided by the members of the Belgian resistance.

I heartedly recommend this book. Few people get a chance to crawl around a B-17 or talk to those who crewed them. I am lucky as a museum volunteer I get to. For anyone else, "Shot Down" is the perfect book to find out what it was like to be a crew member and fly in "Forts." The book leads you up to the war, training stateside, deployment to England and life there. It does not spare the reader the horrors of war, the crews suffering and what happens when you are shot down. There is the drama of life of the civilians in the occupied lands, the underground and even comments from the Luftwaffe pilot that shot down his fathers bomber. This is a real book with surprising twists I will not reveal, but will make a lasting impression on you.

Having met the author at the WWII Weekend in Reading, PA this past June was an amazing opportunity as I loved the story and now was able to speak with the author. Steve did an outstanding job telling the story of another group of brave and courageous young men of the 8th Army Air Force that many people today do not have a clue to the sacrifices that these men made for this country. It is obvious that the son has been able to share the story of his father and the entire crew with the emotion that makes feel you are taking part in the experience yourself. Do yourself a favor and read this story!!

Steve has written an exceptional account of his father’s service in treacherous times during WWII. I especially enjoyed learning about life in Thurleigh, England, for our American soldiers. My father was a B-17 navigator in Thurleigh at about the same time Steve’s father served there. My father died when he was only 49 years old and spoke with us very little about his time there, so Steve’s book was particularly meaningful to me.

Having read a large number of WWII books, I must say SHOT DOWN hit the mark for a great read. Plenty of details but not overwhelming in technical jargon, Characters with just the right amount of background, just enough pics to let you identify with the characters and places. Any WWII buff will totally enjoy this history. I found SHOT DOWN to be a book hard to put down and highly recommend this book to anyone curious about or interested in the Air War in Europe. Steve Synder did a fantastic job researching and documenting this history of the bravery and determination of our Fathers and Grandfathers. I wish I was more of a writer (and less of a reader) to better express the quality of this read. GREAT BOOK STEVE!

full disclosure, the author is a friend of a friend, and now mine on FB as well. just putting that there. Shot Down is worthy read, plane and simple (intentional pun). if you are a fan of WWII history, this should be a must-have for your library. if you enjoy air shows and look forward to seeing the B-17, this book is essential. the author has compiled a massive trove of historical material and personal memorabilia (Howard Snyder, the pilot of the Susan Ruth, is the author's father) to fully introduce you to his family and the families of the crew as a whole. author does a good job of making you feel the damp cold of the air base setting, the miserable freezing conditions of flying at 20k feet in an un-pressurized fuselage, the logic of group formation flying, and the very real inherent dangers of being a flight crew -- not just being shot at by enemies. do not expect this to be a clancy-esque read; it's not. it's more of a documentary feel, a la Ken Burns. yes, admittedly there is repetition, and if you are a fast reader, you'll notice it. but Snyder jams a lot of information at you and if you've never served in the military (i have), you should find the repeated explanations helpful in processing the story he tells. the book delves into background and training very well. the mission where the plan goes down, to me, was edge-of-seat reading. then an even more compelling story of months embedded with the Belgian and French resistance, and the immense sacrifice of the civilians who risked their own lives hiding downed airmen. let it be said, not all heroes wear uniforms!

This was an easy-to-read, well-organized book. I enjoyed the details of Howard Synder's pilot training, and just how much time and effort went into each flyer's training. It was thrilling and scary the stories after they were shot down. I love reading about history, and may these stories remind us to never let this happen again.

While I enjoyed the descriptions of the author's father and the son's growing apprehension of the elder Snyder's heroic actions during the war, I was most drawn to the descriptions of the inner workings of the Belgian Resistance. Citizen fighters all, they worked in what capacity they could to rid themselves of an occupying evil. The book was a genuine accomplishment.

I really had my hopes up for this one. Great stories, but very often paragraphs or ideas are repeated with in a page or two making me wonder if I had already read that page. Some things thrown in that make me wonder why it was included (Random facts etc). Great story that needs to be told, just needs to be written better

A few years ago I was the guardian for a WWII veteran on an Honor Flight out of West Lafayette, IN. The experience changed me in ways I never expected. I was so honored and humbled to be among these men and women of the Greatest Generation. Everyone one of them said how proud they were of their service, and they would do it all over again. They also proclaimed that they were not heroes. The heroes were their buddies who died in service to our country. And so began my reading about all aspects of WWII. My veteran friend was a copilot of a B17 Flying Fortress. He was critically injured by flak on his second mission, but he recovered, and went on to finish out his tour of duty. SHOT DOWN is the story of Howard Snyder, pilot of a B17. They were shot out of the air, one of the crew went down with the plane, and the others bailed out. The stories of what happened to the crew that bailed out will keep you on the edge of your seat. Read for yourself about these boys. Yes, these were the boys who saved the world 70 years ago. This is a compelling story of great sacrifice by the crew, but also of the sacrifice of the farmers and towns people who did so much to hide and save the boys. They, too, were often tortured and murdered by the Nazis for their actions. Please read this book and be humbled and grateful for the all that was sacrificed to ensure our freedom freedom. May we never forget.

Author Steve Snyder was the only one who could write this book; he put his heart and soul into it, and it shows! As a published aviation historian and researcher, I was amazed at the depth of his research and the lengths he went to uncover the facts! The book is actually a collection of stories about the men of the B-17 crew SUSAN RUTH. We learn about their varied backgrounds, their training, entry into war over the skies of Europe, and what it was like to fly missions in the Flying Forts. I was amazed that the author left no stone unturned in his quest for historical accuracy, right down to locating the actual Luftwaffe pilot who shot down his dad's plane and getting his recollections! If Steve's goal was to elicit an emotional reaction from his readers, he certainly succeeded with me! That's an example of mighty fine writing! After putting down the book, I was grateful and relieved that I never had to endure what the crew went through. Steve and his father Howard pay tribute to the many sympathetic villagers in occupied Belgium and France who risked their lives to rescue and provide aid to our shot down airmen. Some of the survivors of SUSAN RUTH went back to personally thank the families. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing their smiling faces and the houses and farms where they hid from the Germans and their collaborators. CONGRATULATIONS STEVE!

Many heroes don’t survive the story but live forever in their own ways. So it is with STEVE SNYDER’S STORY ABOUT HIS FATHER, ‘’SHOT DOWN.’’The story is slow as he is in training but hang on when he goes to war. Really we live in a small world.READ ON !

For anyone looking for a story of courage and suspence this is the book for you, author Steve Snyder has written a book about the courage of men who put their lives on hold to serve their country in a time of great need. This book has taught me so much about the 8th USAAF during WWII and courage of the men who flew the B-17 including his father. They were brave men one and all. I highly recommend the hardcover version of the book, it includes many more pictures than the e-version and you will be glad you did. The way it was written is very informative and once you start reading it you won't want to put it down.

Simply one of the best books in the air war genre. I've read a good number of the books on this topic, but bought this one on a whim after seeing it mentioned on a WWII forum....boy, what a surprise! The author does a masterful job of presenting context, facts, and feelings. The research is impressive and the anecdotes, letters, personal stories, and photos bring it home. Highly recommend this one even if you are well-versed on the subject.

The book is a good read. The days are passing fast as to our access to personal accounts of WWII. Snyder does a great job on his research concerning his farther's tour of duty and his life after he was shot down. Having been a devout Doolittle fan, I have to correct him on two statements. First, Doolittle had no intention of returning to the Hornet after they launched. The raid was always planned for the one way trip, to bomb Japan and then fly on to China. Secondly, the pilot of plane #7 and author of "Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo" was Ted Lawson, not Ted Dawson. Through no fault of the author,the Kindle download had a lot of format mistakes in it. I enjoyed the book and would recommend it. The days of these types of personal stories are fading fast, as even the children of the WWII vets are moving into their sixties and seventies (I should know). Steve Snyder does a great job telling the story of his war hero farther.................................

I loved this book for the history I didn't know. Its a fantastic true story of a crew shot down behind enemy lines, and their fates. Most Americans today have no idea that Belgians risked their lives to save American airmen. But today, those surviving airmen and others are hailed as returning heroes there. This book shows why- the bravery and heroics of the crew and their Belgian helpers has to be read to be believed. If only stories like this were more widely known in the States... I enjoyed this book so much, I've read it twice.

Shot Down by Steve Snyder very vividly details the events of a B-17 bomber crew piloted by his father during WWII. In the telling Snyder also depicts the personal stories of crew members of several B-17’s along with the civilians who rescued downed flyers and the price some of them paid for it. Recommend this book to other WWII history buffs and interested others in that war.

This was a good WWII account of bombing missions of the 8th Air Force and the escape and evasion of the crew of the bomber Susan Ruth after its crash in Belgium. It was an exciting account that I found hard to put down.

What a great personal story about Howard Snyder and his crew. Really gives you a great idea of what they went through and the exciting details about their journey. Taken from first hand accounts as well as letters and a multitude of research that must have taken years to gather and interweave into this exciting story. A great read!

A thorough, compelling and thoughtful true story of being shot down from a B-17 over Europe in WW II. My uncle was radio operator on a B-17 that flew from Thurleigh airfield. His plane was shot down and he didn't survive. This book fills in a lot of what it was like there.

Thanks to Steve Snyder for sharing his Dad's story. I ripped through this very well written book and left it with further admiration for the young men who dealt with fear on a daily basis, what amazing heroes they were. My Dad was on an LST during the same period but unfortunately he never talked about his experiences, many of these kids never did so I appreciate the research here.

I just finished this marvelous book. Steve Snyder has done an excellent job of telling his father's story along with the historical background of the events that take place. My dad was a B-17 pilot whose plane was shot down on their third mission and this book helped to fill in some of the missing pieces of my dad's time in the Army Air Force. I recommend this book for anyone interested in World War II and or the 8th Air Force. Steve has done a fabulous job of telling the story of the brave men who were willing to give their lives for the freedom of others, and of the extremely brave men and women of the resistance who risked not only their own lives but those of their entire families to help the downed allied airmen.

An excellent, well-written and researched, easy to read book. I served in the USAF from 1952-1979, and was fortunate to serve with many of those who survived these dangerous and all-to-often fatal mission. My greatest hero, friend and mentor was one of those who was shot down in Jan, 1944 and held POW for 15 months in a POW camp. Steve Snyder captured the essence of the courage of those who got up on ech mission day, felt the fear, overcame it and climbed aboard those B-17's. I was also highly impressed with his coverage of an often-forgotten band of heroes who put their lives on the line, to protect and assist those aircrews that went down in their home countries. In spite of the certain fate that awaited them if caught, their love of freedom overcame those fears. Our nation owes them a tremendous debt of gratitude. CMSgt Edward C. Beard, USAF, Ret

The book Shot down is one of the best books I ever read from World War 11. Steve Snyder did a great job of telling his Fathers experience during the war from the beginning of flight training with his crew to Combat to be shot down. You can't imagine what the pilot Howard Snyder and his crew went thru evading the enemy to safety back to England. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about WW2 and the Eighth Army Air Force. Mark Daniels

Interesting story. Enjoyed the storyline but the author is too sympathetic to the Germans. There is mention of Hitler and his barbarism but no mention of killing millions of Jews but a whole chapter on the British destruction of German cities by bombing.

Truly a great read. It was very informative as to what the bomber crews actually endured during their tours of duty, as prisoners of war and fugitives trying to reach safety. It opened my eyes as to what my Dad and his brother went through as B-17 pilots themselves. Thankfully, they came home safe but both lost crewmen during their tours. I highly recommend this book to one and all.

This book is the story of a B 17 crew from the first days of their training through their first missions in England with the 306th Bomb Group I particularly enjoyed the description of training as this was new to me. The description of missions and the equipment the crew used was also very informative. The story of the crew after the plane was shot down is also interesting but the best part for me was the informative sections about the training in the US and the equipment and preparation for missions. It's highly recommended.

I very much enjoyed the way the author integrated historical facts of WW II Europe and the Nazi regime with the personal story of his father's experiences as pilot of the Susan Ruth. This narrative brings to mind many stories my parents shared with me about their experiences during the war. Snyder gives insight from the crew, family back in the states, and allies in Europe who risked their lives to protect our servicemen. It is encouraging to see how our men were appreciated in Belgium and other parts of Europe for their service and sacrifices. It is uplifting to read true stories of the resiliency of the human spirit in its desire for freedom.

A Vera impressive book. It gives the reader a very complete history of the Air Force activities in Europe. It relates good information about the B17 plane and derails of its crews. A very good book!

Shot Down is truly an excellent book describing the experiences of Howard Snyder and the crew of the B17 Susan Ruth. The bravery shown by the members of the Underground who worked to protect Howard Snyder is truly remarkable. An added bonus is learning that years later the author met the German fighter pilot who shot down the Susan Ruth, who had also been shot down by the B17 gunners at the same time. Anyone interested in the history of the B17 and the crews should read this book!

Mr Snyder did endless hours of research o learn his Dads History. A Most Amazing Read of Love & Wanting to know of his Dads enduring journey & the legacy he would pass on to his son Mr Steve Synder.. a TRUE History & Real People & Places

Excellent account of the crew of the Susan Ruth before and after they were shot down. If you have an interest in WWII, you will be fascinated by the story. I had the pleasure of meeting Steve Snyder in person a couple years ago at an air show. I took my book to get his autograph.

As someone interested in WWII history, especially the air war, I found this novel to be an excellent read. It is a well written account of the story of a bomber crew's struggle to survive after being shot down in occupied Europe. What sets this book apart is the fact that it was written by the pilot's son. The author's attention to detail, research, and desire to honor his father (and his father's crew) make this book a definite 5-start recommendation. You will enjoy it from cover to cover.

Shot Down is among the very best WWII books I've ever read. It's rare for me to read a book cover to cover in one session, but that's exactly what I did with this exceptional book as I couldn't put it down. It also gave me some subtle insights into what it was like for my own father who served in the Army Air Force in the European Theater during that same time.

I really enjoyed reading this book. It gives an insider's view into the daily life of a B-17 crew member's life during Worl War Two. A life that could be routine and boring while just killing time and suddenly terrorizing as their aircraft was shot to pieces by enemy antiaircraft fire and swarms of fighters. This book follows a typical crew on several missions and on the ground in Belgium after being shot down as they try to make it back to England with the help of members of the underground.

What a wonderful, historic story. While reading, you almost feel like you are there . The worst part about the book is when it ended. .... I hate a great story when it ends. It's almost like having to say goodbye to friend. Oh well. I can alwasy read it again , right?

This book kept me interested from beginning to end. The content was riveting, especially since I knew it was also a true story. Mr Snyder is an excellent writer who writes in an easy to read manner. I would love to read another work by him. Shot Down has tragic but heroic elements to it . It was easy to develop a picture of the story in my mind as I began following the adventure of his father and I have such admiration for him and his service to our country.

Outstanding tale of patriotism, perseverance, and bravery. All during one of the most perilous times in our nation's history. I heartily recommend this to students of history, and those who enjoy a great action story!

I follow Mr. Snyder's son on a site and sometimes chat with him.... I finally bought a copy of his book about his father besides I love B-17's . This is a very awesome book. Mr Howard Snyder I saluate you ..Thank you for serving and God Bless you....God Speed !!

SHOT DOWN is a wonderfully written, detailed, and very informative book about the brave young crew of the B-17 SUSAN RUTH . Not only will you learn about the lives of each of the ten men ,you will feel like you are right there with them....experiencing what they went through - in the air, as they were shot down , captured , and so much more. The factual, historical information in this book is incredible, and Steve Snyder has provided photos, documents, and references to further satisfy any historian, and people who want to learn about the lives of some of our true heroes! Thank you to the crew of the SUSAN RUTH , and thank you STEVE SNYDER, for writing the compelling story of these brave men.

The American B-17 bomber was shot down over Belgium. The crew parachuted out. Yet the pilot himself landed awkwardly, and was left hanging from the limb of a tree, dangling twenty feet above the ground. German soldiers were looking for the flight crew, but the recent snow fall made it difficult for their dogs to find the scent. First, however, people from the Belgian underground found the pilot. They cut him down, took him in, and sheltered him and other crew members until peace came many months later. The story is well told and paced, easy to read, with evident research, including many apt photographs and reproductions. Members of the Army Air Corps had arrived in England. A major challenge was mastering the difficult art of all-weather flying in tight formations, maintained for protection from enemy fighter aircraft. A view of the private lives of the American airmen is presented. The author, being the son of the pilot Howard Snyder, can give insider perspectives, and indicates the emotional quality and intuitive realities of live in these historic circumstances.

Devastatingly personal. You will feel the loss with each injury and death. Families on the ground risk death and torture as a result of hiding and caring for our flyers shot down. Pray that we never again must fight a Communist government not unlike what is at hand with us today.

Shot Down is an amazing true story describing the courage and ingenuity of the men and women of WWII. Based on his father’s letters as a B-17 pilot and his countless hours of research, Steve Snyder captures not only the horrors of war, but the extreme bravery and courage of the airmen and the Resistance Fighters in Belgium during WWII. To appreciate one’s freedom, we should understand what it took to maintain it. This book does that.

Book was so well written and facts given i have stayed up well beyond bedtime to finish That is saying I couldn't put the book down .

We had a family member that was also shot down in a B-17 during WW2. He never talked much about what had happened, and we have only now begun to find out what the air crews experienced. Steve Snyder's book Shot Down was well written and added so much to our research on the air crews life during the war. This book is a must read for information on the air war, B-17s and the personal experiences of the men who fought the air war.

I had read this before and purchased this copy for a gift. It has good information about bombing and flying during World War II. It tells about all of the members of the crew from various locations in the US who came together to be an important flying group. It is easy to read. It would inform a reader about the work the pilots, crew and back-up workers did to further the war effort. The person to whom I gave the book is very knowledgeable about World War II and found the book very good.

This was an outstanding true story of survival and determination. Facts and history were well placed in this book. Excellently written and detailed descriptions made you feel you were apart of this time. I give it five stars and shared it with my reading classes at the high school I taught at in Los Alamitos, California

As the daughter of a B-17G co-pilot, I found this book to be one of the most compelling, eye-opening accounts of the Mighty Eighth Air Force and its heroes. I am hopeful it will one day be a motion picture so future generations can understand at what price "peace" is sought. Excellent book...powerful!

Well done. Factual. Moving. If you want a reminder of how brave our fathers and grandfathers that fought WWII were, and the civilians caught up in the war, this book will bring it home to you.

This is a very well written book that I found hard to put down. Steve's writing style made me feel as though I was a member of his dad's crew, experiencing what they went through during their missions....both pre-flight and post-flight. I highly recommend this book to anyone who has an appreciation for the airmen of the Army Air Corps during WWII, no matter which theatre was involved. Thank you, Steve, for honouring the Greatest Generation in this way. May you dad, his crew, and all of his generation be remembered as heroes.

This book builds a powerful picture of the way war can envelope ordinary families and dramatically alter their lives. It shows the variety of ways people respond to invasion. Many with great heroism and self sacrifice. This is a book that builds a clear, detailed and compelling picture of the lives of U.S. servicemen and their families and the French/Belgian resistance fighters who helped them. It builds to a powerful crescendo! Highly recommended!

An Outstanding read. Anyone who has an interest in WWII would enjoy this book. It gives you a better perspective on what the Bomber Crews went through, from their training to their bomb missions. Once they left for their gaining theater's, everything changed. Nineteen year old young boys, changing into Men each day.

A very interesting & compelling read. The story of Steve Snyder's father's war experience is, in itself, a great story but Steve has made this book much more as it includes the story of the war years as seen through the eyes of the Army Air Corp stationed in England. This book also tells the story of the brave Resistance fighters. He also shows us the difficulties the British were suffering due to years of war. I highly recommend this book-a true story that reads like a novel.

In Shot Down, Steve Snyder does a great job telling the story of his father's experiences flying during World War II. I read it after reading Donald Miller’s excellent book, Masters of the Air. I found that Shot Down gave me a better sense for what the flying experience was like for one person, from the time Steve's father started training at multiple places in the U.S., to getting to England and then flying missions -- when those weren't scrubbed because of the weather. My father-in-law also flew in the Eighth Army Air Force, and reading this book gave me a better sense for what his years during the war (especially in England) were probably like. I was also fascinated by the description of what it was like in Belgium for the downed flyers there, and was amazed at the number of stories about times they were forced to move from one house to another (or one hiding place to another) and ran into German soldiers. I hadn't realized the amount of sympathy among some Belgians for the Nazis, which certainly complicated things. All in all, this is a well-told story full of interesting and enlightening anecdotes.

A great story and a history lesson that you just don't get in school! This is the first book,that I've read cover-to-cover, in several years. I just had a hard time laying this one down. A wonderful story of tough, American B17 flyers, and WWII history and information that I've not learned previously. This is a book for everyone. Excitement, intrigue, fear, suspense, joy, sorrow, good and evil!

This book is excellent! It is well-researched, well-documented and well-written. Using first-hand account information, Steve Snyder does a very effective job of transporting the reader back to the days of the second world war, as he shares the gripping story of his father and the crew of the B-17 Susan Ruth. It is emotional, informational and suspenseful as he memorializes their heroic story as they, and their families back home, endured the horrors of war. Snyder also pays tribute to the people who, at the risk of certain death, were willing to help downed American airmen evade capture by German soldiers. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Snyder's book and offer my thanks for his extraordinary effort in detailing his father's experience. It is one of those stories that just had to be told so we can all remember the sacrifice of so many people as they saved the free world.

Exceptionally good read, can't dislike first hand account of bomber crew experiences after being shot down.

Steve has written one of the best books I have ever read. He tells the story of his Father's service in The Army Air Corp during WW 2 with amazing incite. We follow his Dad from pilot training to wars end. We meet the good people of Belgium and what they risked to help our troops. Steve has an uncanny ability to put us in the cockpit of the Susan Ruth with his father and crew. You can certainly tell that thorough research went into this project. GREAT STORY STEVE

I loved it Steve. My past few years of research into the downed pilots and crews in the area has been an amazing journey. Shot Down opens the history books on a little remembered event just an hour from my current home. Other than family of the crew and the people directly impacted by them, few know the tale. I am proud that you were able to put this piece together. Proud to know my co-workers played a small part in telling this story and proud that we will once again recognize Howard Snyder and his crew once again this year. I generally avoid getting personal in Amazon reviews, but the story brought tears to me eyes. I know it so well, but reading it from a new perspective filled so many gaps. Thanks for finally getting this story to print so many years after the event. It had to be told. Lest we forget.

The information in this book is solid and well researched. However, it read more like a list of facts instead of well told story.

Thank You Steven Snyder- a must read. My understanding of WW II was limited to some history and Hollywood, enjoying movies like Twelve O’clock High and Memphis Belle. I enjoy seeing old planes at air parks and memorials, driving past the parked B-17 on Hwy 99 in Tulare CA, thinking that I have lived my life in peace, thanks to the service of our Servicemen. Reading Shot Down, I have some understanding of how the war affected so many lives. This is more than a story of the crew of the Susan Ruth. Shot Down shares the story of the Belgian villagers who lost all that was theirs and risked their lives for the support of the bombers. The history in the book told of the horrors the Nazis inflicted on towns and villages. The notes and letters provided made the story very personal for me. The factual information, statistics, drove home the magnitude and impact of the war. This is a history lesson I consider as world events unfold today. I gave copies to my sons, a must read

Great read! If you were ever in the military it rings so true. Great Adventures and experiences.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I had an uncle who was a co-pilot of a B-17 bomber during WWII and was in the 306th bomb group stationed at Thurleigh, England. My uncle was killed during a bombing mission. Reading Steve Snyder's book gave me a sense of what life was like for these bomber pilots and the danger they faced on each bombing mission. Mr. Snyder's writing puts the reader right there. This truly is a story about the exploits of the Greatest Generation!

The book overall deserves 5 stars for being well written but I lost interest as it reminded me why I didn’t want to write about my Dad’s experience as a U.S. Marine hero in the South Pacific from 1943-1945. I know everything about my dads personal experiences in WWII but they would only be of interest to his family although I wanted to shout to the world how proud I am of him. The rest is history as they say.

What a wonderful book for all ages. Would love to have it presented as required reading within our school system. The author has provided details regarding the young men that crewed the B-17 Susan Ruth, as well as the details of how they were trained, how the Army Air Corp operated, WWII air operations in the European Theater, and their fate when their bomber came under heavy fire. Make certain to consider the hard cover edition as the photographs are wonderful. Also, consider following the author on Facebook in order to not miss the introduction of the documentary that will follow.

Hands down, this is one of the very best I've read on this kind of topic. The author does a fantastic job holding the reader's interest from the first page to the last- I've read this four times now. Very well written by an excellent author, this is one that any self-respecting WWII history buff should not pass up.

I learned a lot from this book. And to know that it is all true made it remarkable. Highly recommend!

The human side of an airman. Volunteering, training, missions and not returning. The story of escape by a downed air crew and recognition of all those that helped them escape, many paying for their efforts with their lives at the hands of nazi war criminals.

It is a well written & factual story. Really loved liked it. Research was well done

Just finished SHOT DOWN ,and what a great read it was! I would encourage anyone interested in U.S. history or World history to pick up a copy. It is chock full of detail about the aircraft used in WWII, the flying conditions,the targets, and why it was necessary to bomb them. Additionally the bios of the crews and the anecdotal asides are informative and add a touch of humanity to the inhumane experience that is war. I have been there (Viet Nam) and can appreciate how jokes, nick names and naming planes and even weapons somehow helps the men maintain their sanity. The authors attention to such detail is commendable. Howards story is a microcosm of what makes America the greatest and most beneficent country in the history of mankind. This is a truly great story well told by the author. I hope other stories are in the works. Get a copy and enjoy! dms

I liked the research that was done on each of the crew and the interaction with the citizens of Belgium. Very well done. The book was for my personal enjoyment.

I really enjoyed Steve's account of his father's service during WWII! It's always amazing to me to learn of the incredible bravery of people like Howard Snyder and his crew who gave so much on our behalf, not to mention the bravery of the Belgian people who helped them to survive and escape capture. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to know what it was like to fly missions in the deadly skies over the European Theatre of Operations!

With Veteran’s Day around the corner (November 11th) I read your book. It is a great read and helps the all American citizens born after the “Greatest Generation” appreciate the hardships endured by great Airmen like your father. It is hard for us to imagine the sacrifice and anguish felt by families who would learn of their family members dying through a 6 lined telegram. Books like “Shot Down” remind citizens of the world their country could be taken over by a group who simply want to kill everyone that does not believe in the same religion.

This book is an excellent account of the author's father's ordeal as a downed pilot of a B-17 bomber during WWII. The author has done extensive research resulting in a book with as much history as adventure and drama. It gives a good insight of the life of a downed pilot behind enemy lines and his journey back to friendly territory. Copies of original documents and photographs are abundant. It's a highly recommended read for anybody wishing to more fully understand the life of a WWII airman assigned to combat during WWII.

I found the this book is outrageously great on several levels. The author has masterfully crafted an integration of well researched facts and beautifully written descriptions of events, so compelling that I truly could not put it down. I was deeply touched by the incredible courage of the young crew and amazing efforts of the Belgian underground. The facts, as told by crew members and villagers, then substantiated by both 8th Air Force and Luftwaffe official records, creates a account of ordinary people doing extraordinary things. All in the face of Nazism. It is a life affirming story everyone should read. I encourage you to get your own copy. This book will be in my library forever in the area reserved for "not to be loaned".

Saw a webinar about the author and found it so interesting I had to have the book.

Extremely well-researched and well-written story about a B-17 and the fate of her crew after being shot down during WWII. Whether you are a history buff or have an interest in the air war over Germany, you will thoroughly enjoy this tale, written by the son of the B-17 pilot. I highly recommend “Shot Down” as one of the most readable books on the subject.

Was a very good read on what the aviators who survived being shot down were able to get help from civilians to evade capture

Through the eyes & documentation of his late father, bomber pilot 1st Lt. Howard Snyder, author Steve Snyder crafts an educational and gut-wrenching book about the brave airmen of the B-17 crew the Susan Ruth. Four officers and six enlisted men, entwined for life as they trained, then flew heart-stopping dangerous missions while destroying German war installations. This book is more than a story of the Susan Ruth being shot out of the sky, some of its crew living and some dying. Ironically, there are important passages from a German fighter pilot who participated in the attack. AND...marvelous stories about the fearless men and women of the Belgian and French resistance...patriots who risked...and in many cases sacrificed their lives to rescue and hide American airmen. Masters .Jack Mullen: Bandon, Oregon

Through the eyes of this book I now have a much greater understanding of my own father's experience. Like many Veterans, he spoke little of his experiences. Thanks to Steve, I have learned more. An excellent documentation of history and courage. This will be passed to my children and grandchildren.

Great book :) :) very well written, may be of interest to the historian or to those interested in aviation and the Second World War. Congratulations to the author :) :)

If you are a bit curious of the life of a B-17 pilot from beginning to end this tells it all in detail. What a story of heros! This IS a must for anyone into our history during WWll

This book was excellent and a great read. I highly would recommend this book

Thank God for men like these that answered the call. They are truly part of the greatest generation the world will ever experience.

Interesting story of corrougous airmen and their harrowing time eluding capture. The B 17 crew's never knew what fate awaited them on their missions.

As a military historian specialising in the US 8th Army Air Force in England in World War Two, I read many biographical books either for broadening my knowledge, or to see how a fellow author tackles the subject. 'Shot Down' by Steve Snyder stands tall among many. His book, admirably illustrated, focusses on his late father, Howard, who was a B-17 pilot flying daylight missions over Nazi-occupied Europe in 1943-44. Lt Snyder was shot down over Belgium, and was assisted in evading capture by ordinary Belgian citizens doing extraordinary things - sheltering Allied airmen from the Germans, at peril of death if discovered. This book is the stuff of legends, made even more noteworthy by the fact it is all true. Steve Snyder's research into what happened to the rest of the crew of B-17 'Susan Ruth' is detailed and measured, and one aspect I found particularly compelling is how the backdrop of what was happening in World War terms is woven into the narrative, as sometimes authors can take broader knowledge amongst the readership for granted. This book is backed by an excellent website, and the fact the author is approachable - via facebook, his website and e-mail - is also refreshing. An important book all-round for both general and specialised reader, and a welcome addition to my bookshelf - Paul Allonby.

The title of this book is misleading. It would be more accurate to call it "A Short History of World War 2," or something like that. The airmen are not "shot down" until chapter 25. At that point the story becomes very interesting, but you will have to wade through 24 chapters of a broad overview of the second world war, with an emphasis on the air war, to get there.

My father was shot out the sky over Beek, Holland on Black Thursday. Steve’s book helped me relive what my father must have experienced. It’s an excellent read! Thanks, Steve!

Arrived just as described and on time.

It is the complete story of an incredibly courageous man who goes in to great detail of his bomber crew and plane. Very informative in all areas of war. Felt like I knew him personally just from reading his book. Should be required reading for High School History class!

This is a wonderful and inspiring book. It is very well written and really gives the reader the experience of being present with the courageous men and women of the underground and the heroic airmen. Their deeds and courage should always be remembered and honored

Bought this book form my kindle. Started reading and found myself having a hard time putting it down. Filled with intrigue and adventure, this book was a joy to read. I found myself disappointed when I reached the last page. Great book! Great story! Anyone who loves military aviation history as I do should have this book in their library!

I've read many WWII books. This is a story about one B-17 crew. The author takes you on their journey through WWII from day one. Along the way you'll learn about the everyday ups and downs of military life and death. Once you start you'll not want to put the book down. Having a father that went through the air war in Europe I have a new outlook of what was required to live it. Hopefully we can learn from this.

An excellent story about one of the many heroes of WWII, and from a unique perspective, his son. A true glimpse into the journey of Howard Snyder and his air crew on the legendary Boeing B-17. A book that not only tells the story of the air war over Europe, but a great memorial to a father, husband, and hero

Any WWII or Aviation enthusiasts will enjoy reading about the aircrew of the B-17 named Susan Ruth. Steve Snyder has done an amazing job researching the history of his Dad who was the pilot and the rest of the crew. He brings you into the lives of each individual, their training, base life in England, missions, flak, and German fighters and the attack that shot them down. What happens to each crew member on their last mission and the aftermath of the attack by the German fighter plane I will leave up to you to find out. You will not be disappointed with this book, get it, read it and enjoy it as much as I did.

I have always been extremely interested in the USAAF during WWII and I have studied it a great deal. I’m blessed to have known men who flew and served in B-17s during the war, and I learned a great deal from them. Steve Snyder’s excellent book provided a great deal of information I’d never known before, and he taught me a lot. Books like Steve’s make me extremely grateful and proud to be an American. I highly recommend this book!

Very interesting read about a WW2 story I had never heard about. You will enjoy this book!

Not a bad read, but only about 25% is actually about the crash and imprisonment. The rest is about the year or two up to the crash and about the people involved in the rescue and return. Can get extremely confusing with all the characters.

as a student of history and the son of a WW2 Vet I found this book a edge of your seat recounting of the Gratest Generations sence of duty and the unwavering strength to endure anything to succceed under the most unnerving conditions

Interesting book, yet missing more personal details. at the end I wished they got into more details about what happened.

Educational yet touching, Steve Snyder hits a home run with his freshmen effort in Shot Down. I enjoyed reading about the training these men went through in the States and England, as well as the different jobs each man had in the B-17 plane. The personal and touching part comes into play with the many letters Howard wrote home to his newlywed and pregnant wife during the war. The stories of the WWII POWs are exciting, nerve wracking and anxiety-ridden as Snyder puts the reader in the front seat describing what happened to the men in his Father's crew. I highly recommend this book and feel every American should read it to learn about where we come from as a nation, and the steep price we've paid along the way.

too much family history early,

I highly recommend this book. It is both a tribute to courageous soldiers and a great read of a piece of history during World War II. A must have for any library!

Terrific history. Steve Snyder effectively brings hours of research and first hand contact with survivors to present a true story that affected so many people during that time. So much of dedication to freedom and the sacrifices everyday people made during those days has been forgotten or at least diminished. It was inspirational to hear see for ourselves the challenges overcome by the courageous crews and the civilians on the ground who protected them risking death themselves. Only a person with Steve's perspective through his relationship with his courageous parents and his encounters with survivors could bring this story to life. Great job, Steve. Definitely should be made into a movie with your screenplay.

I love war stories, and this book is a true testimony to all the hero's of the long but not forgotten war of WW2. Steve's father and crew of the B-17's Susan Ruth, some having survived the horrors of war. To return to their families. Steve's book is a patriotic look of these brave men. To be remembered and honored for their service to the United States. I am very proud to know Steve as a friend and author of a fantastic book.

Fantastic novel by Steve Snyder. Unbelievable amount of research went into the writing of this book. Great insights into what the bomber crews life was like during the air war over Europe. However, this is much more then an aviation book. There is substantial detail of the ground war in Europe and the devastation in both Europe and the United Kingdom. I enjoyed how the novel got into the every day experiences of the aircrews, the Belgian resistance fighters and the families back home. This novel is a great refresher into the sacrifices that our service men and women went through during World War II.

This is a great read! When you read about these men, you'll understand why they're the "Greatest Generation"! My father flew in B24 Liberators, they were beyond brave. They would climb into their planes, not knowing if they would come back. I highly recommend this book.

This is a great book. My Snyder does a excellent job setting the stage and then telling a story about these extraordinary men. I have and will continue to recommended this book to all my friends and anyone looking for a good account of the air war over Europe during WW2.

Great story, well written.

This true story is a must-read for any fan of history. The author tells the personal side of his father's service during WW2. The book weaves historic events with stories of the daily struggles of an American aviator and the brave citizens who helped him return home.

This is a great book! My father was a B17 pilot stationed at Chelveston, England. This book gave me an idea of what my father went through!! He didn't talk much about his 35 missions, but did tell me that he didn't think he was going to live through it.

After reading some of the reviews written by literary scholars and history majors, I'd like to add my own which is not going to be as eloquent or precise. All I know for sure is what I like and what I don't. I like biographies and autobiographies, I like to feel like I'm there at that time period. This book did that for me. I felt like I was there, jumping out of a burning plane at 20,000 feet, hiding from the enemy, not knowing about my fellow comrades. I had to do a lot of flipping back to check on characters mentioned more than once but I didn't mind. The experience was worth it. (you can't know the players without a scorecard!) as they say at Padre stadium!

Fantastic book written from an incredibly detailed and unique perspective. If you’ve had family who served in WW2, this will likely be especially resonant - I know it was for me. It’s a superb accounting of the things these incredible men went through.

Interesting but many sections of text are repetitive. The majority of the book is the lead up to being shot down(civilian lives, initial training etc), rather than what occurred after being shot down.

Great read! Accurate depictions!

This was a gift so I don't know how it should be rated.

It takes the author the first 200 pages to get to the point of the actual shoot down. Nice history of the pilot and his crew and what it was like living in WW-2 England, but not much detail of inflight B-17 operation.

A great book of how our brave young men fought and died to keep the world FREE from mans twisted mind. Instead of playing games on hand held computers and such, people should pick up a nonfiction book like this, to see what their freedom cost. Many young men gave up their young lives to save the world from enslavement. Most, and I do mean most people now days take freedom for granted. Freedom is NOT free, it cost many lives to give you your freedom. Can or would you do the same?

This is an amazingly detailed story of the war and the brave airmen who risked it all over nazi Germany during WWII. The story of the crew of the bomber Susan Ruth is completely through and captivating

I finished this book in a few days. A lot of information on what it was like flying a B-17. I now can relate this with stories I've heard about a good friends dad who was a waist gunner in a B-17.

Outstanding factual account of what it was like to train, fly in combat and then be shot down over Europe in World War II. My father flew in World War II over France as a bomber pilot. The author's description of his father's training, deployment and experiences as a bomber pilot opened my eyes to the real experience these young men went through. You wonder throughout the book, "Could I have done that?" The courage of everyone involved, the men, wives and family is truly amazaing. It's no wonder their called, "The Greatest Generation."

A good tale that takes a while to get to the meat of the story. Amazing help these airmen received to stay out go the hands of the Germans and SS.

Great history of an crew of a B17. Their dedication to the mission and the USA is very honorable. You don't see that in today's generation. Highly recommend you purchase this book!

EXCELLENT! this book is so good and spot on. my dad was part of the 305th bomb group and shot down October 14, 1943. he spent 19 months as a POW in Stalag 17B. This book really helped me understand how the men felt while airborne and trying to evade capture. Highly recommend this book for anyone with an interest in our greatest generation.

Fantastic book that is the result of lots of research and conversations with his father, Howard, a B-17 pilot in WWII. Steve hits this one way out of the park! I learned so much about what those long, dangerous, bombing missions were like and also the courage shown by the French and Belgium civilians. The many photos let you put a face with the real people and places he describes.... Bravo Zulu Steve

I thoroughly enjoyed Shot Down by Steve Snyder. It's a comprehensive and well researched story of heroism, bravery and courage demonstrated by both the WWII 8th Air Force crewmen who were shot down and the Belgian citizens who risked everything to help them. The personal stories are moving and will renew your belief in the Greatest Generation!